An Introduction to Greek Art

The four centuries between the composition of the Homeric epics and the conquests of Alexander the Great witnessed an immensely creative period in Greek art, one full of experimentation and innovation. But time has taken its toll; damaged statues have lost their colour and wall paintings have been totally destroyed. And yet, sympathetic study of surviving sculpture and drawings on vases can give extraordinary insight into and appreciation of these once brilliant works.

An Introduction to Greek Art, designed originally for students, introduces the reader to Greek sculpture and vase painting in the critical period from the eighth to the fourth centuries BC. The works discussed are generously illustrated and lucidly analysed to give a vivid picture of the splendour of Greek art. The updated second edition includes a new chapter examining art in Greek society, a timeline to help relate artistic development to historical events, an explanation of how dates BC are arrived at, a brief overview of Greek temple plans, and a further reading list of recent books.

This clear, approachable, and rigorous introduction makes the beauty of Greek art more readily accessible and comprehensible, balancing description with interpretation and illustration. It is an invaluable tool to help develop insight, appreciation, and comprehension.